Exclusive: When Karan Johar reveals the secret to creating the perfect on-screen romance
During a career spanning more than two decades, Karan Johar has established himself as one of the most popular directors in Bollywood history. Regarding his love stories, Karan is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after directors in Bollywood. His stories, although sometimes unrealistic, still capture our hearts again and again.
In an exclusive interview with Filmfare a few years ago, this brilliant filmmaker talked about the key elements to directing a romance. Here is an excerpt from the interview, “The most important thing is to channel the energy of the couple correctly. A real-life couple never gets it right. Mid-range couple, sharing friendship but no desire and unfamiliar chemistry, always get it right. When the main couple gets too involved in each other, awkwardness is often seen on screen. What I like is when two people who don’t know each other well come together. There was an attraction but they didn’t act on it. The sizzling sound they make on the plastic is amazing. Like Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol for example, they are an attractive couple. There is nothing but friendship and respect between them. Their friendship always reached a certain level and never exceeded it. That’s why they appear on the screen. The second prerequisite is whether the couple looks good together in one frame. Their physical attributes and body language play a big role. Songs and dialogue also play a huge role in a romance story. If there is no love in your line then the romance will be flat. You have to be a lover yourself to make a good love story. If you don’t have romance in you there is no way you can show love. Love is my dream. Although there may be no love in my life, cinema has become an indirect means for me to express my inner love for someone. For me, it’s so simple that every time I plan it, I get it right.”
Karan now has Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani to be released next, marking his return to the director’s chair after seven years.
